Cesar Azpilicueta: Chelsea Captain Leaves After 11-Year Spell
After 11 years of service, Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta is set to leave the club and join Atletico Madrid. The Spaniard has been a stalwart for the Blues since joining from Marseille in 2012, and his departure marks the end of an era for the London side.
Azpilicueta’s Career at Chelsea
Azpilicueta joined Chelsea from Marseille in 2012 and quickly established himself as a key player for the Blues. He made over 350 appearances for the club, captaining them to two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Europa League trophy. His consistent performances earned him the nickname ‘Dave’ from the Chelsea faithful, and he was widely regarded as one of the best full-backs in the Premier League.
The Spaniard was also a leader off the pitch, and his professionalism and dedication to the club was admired by all. He was appointed captain in 2019 and led the team with distinction, helping them to a top-four finish in the 2019/20 season.
Azpilicueta’s Move to Atletico Madrid
Azpilicueta’s move to Atletico Madrid was confirmed on Monday, with the 32-year-old signing a two-year contract with the Spanish side. He will join up with former Chelsea teammate Diego Costa at the Wanda Metropolitano, and will be hoping to help Atletico challenge for major honours next season.
The move reunites Azpilicueta with former manager Diego Simeone, who he worked with during his time at Marseille. The Spaniard will be hoping to bring his experience and leadership to Atletico, as they look to challenge for major honours next season.
Chelsea’s Reaction to Azpilicueta’s Departure
Chelsea have expressed their sadness at Azpilicueta’s departure, with manager Frank Lampard paying tribute to the Spaniard’s professionalism and dedication to the club.
“Cesar has been an incredible servant to this club over the past 11 years and has been an exemplary professional both on and off the pitch,” said Lampard. “He has been a great leader and captain for us and I wish him all the best for the future.”
The club have also confirmed that they will be retiring Azpilicueta’s number 28 shirt in recognition of his service to the club.
Conclusion
Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure marks the end of an era at Chelsea, with the Spaniard having been a key player for the Blues since joining from Marseille in 2012. He leaves with two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Europa League trophy to his name, as well as having captained the club for the last two seasons.
Atletico Madrid are set to benefit from his experience and leadership next season, as they look to challenge for major honours. Chelsea have expressed their sadness at his departure, with manager Frank Lampard paying tribute to his professionalism and dedication to the club. The Blues have also confirmed that they will be retiring Azpilicueta’s number 28 shirt in recognition of his service to the club.